Atlanta in 50 Objects

A pink pig and a renegade cow. A movie prop and a Coke bottle. A Pulitzer Prize–winning book and a Nobel Prize–winning icon.

How do you tell the story of Atlanta in 50 objects? We decided the best experts were Atlantans themselves—residents who cheer the Braves and rue I–285 rush-hour traffic, who understand how Civil War losses and Civil Rights victories together helped forge the city’s unique identity. Atlanta History Center asked the public to submit what objects they think best represent their town. The parameters were broad: an object could also be a person, a place, an institution, or an idea. After receiving hundreds of submissions, History Center staff assembled a collection of fifty pieces that represent the themes identified by the public. In addition to items from our own collections, we have partnered with many local institutions and individuals to gather artifacts from around the city to tell this community–driven story.

Multi-colored pin buttons with various text about Georgia on blue background

Robert W. Woodruff

In 1919, Ernest Woodruff led a group of investors in purchasing the Coca-Cola Company from Asa Candler.

In 1923, he asked his son, Robert, to lead the company. Robert W. Woodruff was president from 1923 until 1954, remaining on the Board of Directors until 1984.

Over several decades, the success of Coca-Cola and resulting net worth of its president meant Woodruff held great influence in the city of Atlanta. Yet, he used his influence behind-the-scenes and donated money anonymously. Atlanta mayors, including William B. Hartsfield and Ivan Allen Jr., called him “Boss,” and considered his support crucial. In 1968, Woodruff assisted the city in covering costs of Martin Luther King Jr.’s funeral. Woodruff’s philanthropic gifts include the Woodruff Arts Center and Woodruff Park (both named in his honor following his death in 1985), and donations to several educational institutions.

His largest philanthropic legacy was Emory University. In 1979, Woodruff gave $105 million to Emory, which at the time was the largest gift ever to a university. Later gifts to Emory from the Woodruff Foundation total more than $500 million.

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